The slot is the position of a backfield receiver about halfway between the offensive line and a split end.  It can denote both the player and the position on the field.

Credit: ESPN

A player can be the slot or can be in the slot.  Sometimes the term is used to describe simply the inside receiver in a twins grouping.  Typically slot receivers are covered by linebackers or safeties who tend to be less adept at coverage than cornerbacks.

Gridiron Glossary is a resource for football terms that are often used by commentators, coaches and players but rarely defined.  If there is a term you have questions about or a definition you don’t agree with, let me know at billy@thirddowndraw.com.